Interview With Ilke Nizam: Confidence, Beauty & Global Growth

YYou are German, previously lived in Spain, and now based in Dubai. Can you tell us how this journey has shaped you?

I was born and raised in Germany, which gave me a strong foundation in discipline and structure. Studying in Spain taught me the importance of flexibility, spontaneity and connection. 

Moving across countries and stepping out of my comfort zone has helped me grow into a more resilient, and confident version of myself. Every challenge along the way has shaped me into the woman I am today. Because when you prove your resilience, life rewards you in ways you could have never imagined.

In Dubai, I’ve found myself in a global city, surrounded by people with vision and drive, it’s such a motivating energy. Every person you meet here teaches you something! I believe you feel deeply drawn to certain places because they are destined to play a significant role in your journey. Dubai feels like home now and I am excited for this new chapter.

As a model, what advice would you give to women who struggle with confidence?

Women today often place a lot of focus on their appearance, but I believe it’s just as important to invest in your mindset. You become what you believe you are. For me, confidence comes from seeing myself grow and reaching the goals I set. It comes from knowing I can rely on myself, that I will always stand back up, no matter how many times I fall. Confidence starts in the mind, it‘s born from self-love and self-respect. Set boundaries. Follow your goals. Be passionate and be kind to yourself, always. When you feel not enough or like you haven’t come as far as you wanted, take a moment to look back and be grateful for your journey. Always live for yourself and don’t worry about what others think. As long as you are happy, that’s what truly matters. Being different is a blessing; never try to fit in just to be accepted. Follow your own path, and own happiness.

You did beauty and fitness competitons in your past, what makes a woman beautiful and stand out?

For me, true beauty radiates from energy and comes from embracing your true self. It’s more than just confidence, it’s the way a woman carries herself, how she treats others, how she holds her values with grace, her elegance and manners. It’s the kindness and compassion in her heart. It’s the way she makes people feel when they’re around her, that’s the kind of beauty that stays long after she’s left the room. A woman can be powerful and still gentle, ambitious yet nurturing. Strength, to me, has never meant losing softness. I believe a woman should embody both - that duality is her true power. Intelligence also makes a woman beautiful. Being able to hold deep, intellectual, meaningful conversations and inspire others is something that truly makes her stand out.

What are you most passionate about?

I’m passionate about enjoying life, freedom, giving love, and loving everything I do. Every day, I start with gratitude for my health, my family, my blessings, my achievements, and the people who always have my back. I’m very dedicated to fitness, nutrition, beauty, skincare, and both physical and mental wellness. I need movement to feel good in my body, and I love my daily routine.

Nothing grounds me more than being in nature. Traveling and exploring new cultures inspires me, and I love history. My friends come from all over the world, and that taught me something beautiful - you can connect so deeply even if your prior life path looked so different.

How do you define success?

For me, success is deeply personal. It’s about reaching the goals you set for yourself while staying true to who you are. It means waking up feeling fulfilled and at peace, being in harmony with yourself, proud of who you are, and loving your own company. I value peace above all else now. To me, that’s success: to keep evolving, to stay inspired, and to live in alignment with your values and purpose. Focus on your goals and progress, but never forget to enjoy the present. Success has no limits and looks different for everyone. For me, it means a life surrounded by love and people who want the best for me and inspire me, living in freedom, having time to do what I am passionate about.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

People often assume that, as a German, I am very serious and reserved. But in reality, I’m funny and warm with the people I love and trust. I’m an extrovert with a big heart, and I will always fight for those I care about. At the same time, I don’t take life too seriously. I believe in having fun, laughing hard, loving unconditionally, enjoying every day to the fullest, giving without expecting anything in return, and forgiving those who wronged you. To me, that’s what life is all about.

Confidence is a key component of pageant excellence. How do you cultivate confidence from within on days when you don’t feel your strongest?

I remind myself of what inspiration and love I’d love to communicate to the world. Knowing that even if I could uplift one person, it’s worth it. Confidence is a choice, so even if you see me at Pilates without my glam or sparkles, I’ll smile and say hello. Because true confidence comes from within. Knowing you’re enough & you can take up space in the world. 

You represent Washington on a global stage. What does this responsibility mean to you, and how do you hope to inspire your community?

I feel very honored to have this platform. I want to show the world the feminine power embodying elegance and strength. I want to show women that they too can rise and follow every single dream they had as a girl. Because I’m doing this for my daughter, my 5 year old self & for every woman around the globe! 

How do you find strenght to deal with challenges in life?

Staying positive. I truly believe that challenges happen to help us grow and everything happens for a reason. If you face a challenge don’t fight it, instead remeber who you are and look back at what you already managed in the past - this will give you strength. Life will get hard at some points, but it is about how you deal with it. I was raised to be a strong, fearless, and self-reliant woman, but that does not mean I cannot be sensible at times. It is fine to ask for help in challenging times. Most difficult moments are followed by unexpected blessings, so keep your mindset positive and try to find beauty in the hardships, it is part of life to live all emotions, happiness as well as pain, love and loss. Even in my most hardest moments I always knew I was going to be fine. I truly believe that what’s meant for you will always find you. Be grounded, stay humble and never forget where you come from.

Model: @ilfinii

Photographer: @joseandresgil

Dress: @innovaredenim